Bone conduction body support system

ABSTRACT

Embodiments described herein provide for a bone conduction system configured as a pillow, bed cushion, seat or similar body support device. The bone conduction system comprises a plurality of transducers positioned about the pillow, bed cushion, seat or similar body support. When ergonomically positioned on the user&#39;s skull, the plurality of transducers transmit sound waves to the inner ear.

FIELD

The present invention relates to devices for providing vestibular andsomatosensory stimulation utilizing bone conduction technologies.

BACKGROUND

The human body can sense sound by air conduction as well as boneconduction. While air conduction is how we typically converse and hearour surroundings, bone conduction can also stimulate the vestibular andsomatosensory systems as sound vibration is transmitted through thebody's skeletal framework.

Stimulating these sensory systems using bone conduction has been provento result in a variety of benefits including the promotion ofneurological development, relaxation and stabilization of the body.Auditory devices have also been used to help treat and/or prevent ADHD,autism, Asperger's, and sensory processing disorder among others. Theseauditory devices have consisted of air conduction headphones as well asbone conduction devices attached to the user's headphones. While thesehave been effective, these devices may be uncomfortable. Further, it hasbeen shown that vestibular stimulation in-utero provides similarbenefits to the fetus, for which prior art devices are not practical.

It can be seen that advancements in the field of bone conduction devicesis needed in light of the limitations found in the prior art. It is anobject of the present invention to provide for a device to stimulatevestibular and somatosensory systems for use in adults, children,infants, and premature infants alike. One such advancement is providedherein.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments described herein provide for a bone conduction devicepreferentially configured as a pillow or other body support systems. Theembodiments provided disclose a device comprised of a flexible coverhaving an exterior surface defining an interior cavity. The cover has abatting disposed therein to support a user's head or neck region whereina plurality of bone conduction transducers is in proximate contact withthe exterior surface. The bone conduction transducers are disposedbetween the flexible cover and the batting, wherein each of theplurality of bone conduction transducers are configured to transmitsounds waves to stimulate a user through bone conduction. Further, asound source is in communication with a wireless transmitter, whereinthe wireless transmitter is electrically connected to and transmittingsignals to the plurality of bone conduction transducers. One or more USBports electrically connected to a power source, wherein the power sourceis configured to receive, store, and transmit power to the plurality ofbone conduction transducers.

A method of stimulating a user using bone conduction is disclosedincluding the steps of disposing a bone conduction system within aflexible cover. Next, an audio signal is transmitted to the boneconduction system utilizing an audio source. The signal is received by awireless receiver and transduced to stimulate thevestibular/somatosensory system of a user.

In another embodiment, the bone conduction system includes a controlpanel disposed on the exterior surface permitting the user to manage theaudio levels, ON/OFF functions, and other controls from the exterior ofthe cover.

In another embodiment, each bone conduction transducer is positionedproximate to the head of the user. Preferentially, each bone conductiontransducer is positioned to sufficiently contact each temporal bone ofthe user.

For appropriate stimulation to the user each bone conduction transducermay be configured to emit sound vibrations having a frequency rangebetween 50 and 4,000 Hz.

Other aspects, advantages, and novel features of the embodiments willbecome apparent from the following detailed description in conjunctionwith the figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more complete understanding of the embodiments, and the attendantadvantages and features thereof, will be more readily understood byreferences to the following detailed description when considered inconjunction with the accompanying drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of the body support device havingintegrated bone conduction assembly, according to an embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 2 illustrates a cutaway view of the exterior surface of thesecondary pocket region, according to an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 3 illustrates a detailed view of the interior cavity of the device,batting, relative positioning of electronic components and closuremeans, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 illustrates a detailed view of the interior cavity of the deviceand relative positioning of electronic components within the secondaryinterior pocket, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 illustrates a schematic of the electrical components, accordingto an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 illustrates a detailed view of the ON/OFF and receivercomponents, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 illustrates a detailed view of the USB component, according to anembodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 8 illustrates a flowchart of a method of stimulating thevestibular/somatosensory systems of a user.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The specific details of the single embodiment or variety of embodimentsdescribed herein are set forth in this application. Any specific detailsof the embodiments are used for demonstration purposes only and nounnecessary limitation or inferences are to be understood therefrom.

The present embodiments provide for a body support structure havingintegrated bone conductors and associated electrical components incommunication thereto. Each bone conductor is comprised of at least onetransducer configured to transmit stimulation to the skeletal structureof the user. Each bone conductor is embedded within a bodily supportdevice, and depending on its overall size, may be placed underneath, ontop of, or around a user who is receiving the auditory stimulation. Thebody support device may be constructed from a few inches square or anylarger size. Each transducer is applied to permit the conduction ofsound waves to any part of the user's skeletal framework. The bodilysupport device having embedded transducers may also be suitably appliedto conduct sound to a fetus (secondary user).

Referencing FIG. 1, the bone conduction system 100 is illustrated havingintegrated bone conduction transducers and electric assembly 500connected thereto. The electrical assembly 500 is disposed within theinterior of the bone conduction system 100 which is illustrated in theinstant embodiment as a pillow. The bone conduction system 100 has aflexible exterior 101 and perimeter 109 defining an interior cavity 103.The interior cavity 103 may be selectively opened or closed using azipper 105 or similar means of textile connection such as a hook andloop system, adhesive, or button system.

Further illustrated in FIG. 1 is a control panel 111 positioned on theexterior surface 101 of the system 100. The control panel 111 iscomprised of a ON/OFF button, volume controls, a battery indicator and asignal indicator as well as other controls known in the arts.

In another embodiment, the exterior may have a stitched region 200defining a perimeter of a secondary pocket disposed within the interiorcavity. A detailed view of the stitched region 200 is illustrated inFIG. 2. One skilled in the arts may appreciate that external stitching201 may not be necessary as solely internal means for secondary pocketattachment such as adhesives may be utilized. When viewed from theexterior surface or interior surface, the secondary pocket has at leastone opening permitting the ingress and egress of the electricalcomponents 500. Stitching 201, 203 or other means of textile adhesionmay define the perimeter of the secondary pocket such that theelectrical components 500 may be retained therein.

Now referring to FIG. 3, a detailed view of the interior cavity 103 ofthe system 100 is shown in an embodiment of the present invention.Batting 300 or other means of cushion and body support may be disposedwithin the interior cavity to promote comfort during use of the device.An interior surface 305 defines an interior wall of the system 100 whichopposes the exterior surface 101. A secondary pocket 303 is positionedbetween the batting 300 and interior surface 305. The secondary pocket303 is configured to retain electrical components comprising theelectrical component assembly 500 within the secondary pocket interior307 of the interior cavity 103. Shown in FIG. 4 is the secondary pocketexterior surface 401 of the secondary pocket 303, in contact with thebatting 300 of the system 100. To ensure proper conduction to theskeletal framework of the user, the electrical components, andspecifically the bone conduction transducers 509, 511 directly contactthe interior surface 305 of the device interior cavity 103.

In another embodiment, the secondary pocket 303 may be removably engagedwith the interior of the system 100 permitting the user to selectivelydispose the electrical components 500 therein.

Suitable application positions of the transducers include bodily regionssuch as the cranium, spine, hip, or leg bones. One skilled in the artsmay appreciate that any point along the skeletal framework of the usermay be effective in conducting sound waves to the user's vestibularand/or somatosensory systems. To permit modulation of the position ofthe transducers 509, 511, the secondary pocket 303 may be removablyengaged with the interior surface 305 of the device interior cavity 103of the system 100.

In another embodiment, the one or more bone conduction transducers 509,511 are utilized to provide sound wave bone conduction in frequenciesprimarily between 50 and 4,000 Hertz (“Hz”).

In another embodiment, cushioned transducer interfaces 515 may be madein differing sizes and thicknesses to permit the transducer 509, 511 tobe used in a variety of body support device configurations not limitedto pillows. Alternative embodiments of body support device 100 mayinclude bedding, massage tables and chairs as well as other commerciallyand privately used support devices.

In reference to FIGS. 5-7, the body support device may be comprised ofone or more wireless transmitter chips such as a wirelesstransmitter/receiver 503, an ON/OFF switch 505, one or more powerstorage means such as battery 501, and a Universal Serial Bus (USB) 507implement. The USB may be a USB-C component allowing for reception andtransmission of data as well as electrical energy to and from thebattery 501. The wireless transmitter 503 chip may include any means forwireless transmission of data over short or long distances such asBluetooth.

The ON/OFF switch 505 may be disposed within the interior cavity 103 orpositioned through the exterior surface 101 permitting the user toswitch from ON to OFF without opening the interior cavity 103. Further,the ON/OFF switch 505 may be engaged and disengaged using the wirelesstransmitter 503.

The instant embodiment illustrates a pair of bone conduction transducers509, 511 which may be positioned anywhere within the interior cavity 103to engage any points on the user's body where thevestibular/somatosensory systems may be stimulated. It may bepreferential for each transducer 509, 511 to be placed on each temple ofthe user.

In order for sound to be transmitted through the plurality oftransducers, a recording playback device 513 is in communication withthe system 100. Sound sources may include CD players, MP3 players, tapeplayers, or other sources of sound well known in the arts. Further, theBluetooth chip 503 embedded within the device may permit any devicehaving wireless connectivity capabilities to be utilized includingportable and static computer systems, PDA's, tablets, and mobile phonesto be utilized in the transmission of sound to the device.

For example, an amplifier (in the device having wireless connectivitycapabilities 503) operates in response to user input that controls theapplication of music tonal frequencies to the amplifier n communicationwith the bone conduction transducers 509, 511. This can be achieved byusing a hard-wired control, or a wireless control. The wireless controlcan use RF signals, IR signals, etc. Control supplies the source ofmusic, and controls the application of the source of music to theamplifier and bone conduction transducers 509, 511.

Sounds selected for transmission may include any embodiment typicallyutilized in the arts including full-spectrum music, low frequency sound,predetermined frequency filtered sounds, recordings of physiological andanatomical sounds among other rhythmic or otherwise therapeutic soundshaving the desired neurological, physiological, or other stimulatoryeffects.

FIG. 8 illustrates a flowchart of a method for stimulating thevestibular/cochlear systems of a user. In step 10 the bone conductionsystem 100 is disposed within a flexible cover. In step 20 an audiosignal is transmitted from an audio source 513 to the bone conductionsystem. In step 30 the signal is then received by the wireless receiver503. And finally, in step 40, the signal is transduced by the pluralityof bone conduction transducers 509, 511 to stimulate the user.

Power storage means such as a battery are configured to send and receivepower throughout the electrical components 500.

In an embodiment, amplitude adjustment to the bone conduction outputsignal from the amplifier is transmitted through multi conductor boneconduction output jack 701 to a multi-conductor bone conduction outputplug that is connected to a bone conduction transducer 509, 511contained in a pillow. The bone conduction transducer 509, 511 islocated within pillow assembly so that when the pillow assembly issupporting the user the bone conduction transducer is in contact withthe subject's skeletal frame.

In an embodiment, the filtered and treated audio data are loaded onto arecording playback device, such as an iPod™ device or similar electronicdata storage implement. In this embodiment, a wireless connectionbetween the treated audio data stored on the recording playback deviceand a plurality of bone conduction devices permit a group of individualsto share the same bone conduction signal in a group setting, or likewisein a solitary setting.

One skilled in the art may appreciate that both mono and stereo audioconfigurations may be utilized depending on the type of audio broadcast.A stereo configuration may be preferable if a plurality of boneconduction transducers are used as well as the intended effect; whetherfor auditory pleasure or therapy.

In another embodiment, a signal from the recording playback device 513is provided to an input of an amplifier/splitter where it is split intoa bone conduction output signal which is connected to one or more boneconduction transducers. The amplifier provides for adjustment of theamplitude of the bone conduction output signal. The bone conductionoutput signal can thus be broadcast for all users in communication withthe community of bone conduction transducers in the bone conductionsystem 100 via the wireless system if desired.

Each transducer system may include the transducer that is coupled to adiaphragm 519. Each diaphragm 519 can be made from a light, thin plasticmaterial or composite such as a carbon fiber/Kevlar composite material.Plastics can include polycarbonate, polypropylene, polyethylene, or anyother desired plastic material that is capable of transmitting the tonalfrequencies of music through the diaphragm 519. Elongated members mayallow the diaphragm 519 to react to lower frequency inputs by thetransducer. The elongated members also allow for flexibility of thediaphragm 519 which further increases the transfer of vibrational tonalfrequencies into the medium in which the diaphragm 519 is connected.Preferentially, each diaphragm 519 is in sufficient contact with theskeletal framework of the user. A preferential contact point may includehuman temporal bones.

In another embodiment, the bone conduction output signal is transmittedto a wireless transmitter for transmission to associated wirelessreceivers. A wireless signal is thus communicated from wirelesstransmitter to a plurality of wireless receivers, one associated witheach set of bone conduction body support devices. Each wireless receivercomprises a separate amplifier to boost the signal strength foradjusting the volume of the bone conduction transducers. Bone conductiontransducers are similar to the transducer assembly 509 or 511 shown inFIG. 5.

In alternative embodiments, the body support systems 100 may alsocomprise a heater (not shown) with a control (not shown) regulate thetemperature of the pad. In another embodiment, the exterior flexiblesheet of padding 112 may comprise locations (not shown) for aromatherapymaterial for depositing a plurality of fragrances and/or a plurality oflight emitting devices for light therapy.

Further, embodiments may include both air conduction and bone conductionintegrations into the systems 100.

Another type of transducer that can be used to transmit music and tonesto the surface of the body is an electro-active polymers (EAPs). EAPsare disclosed in an article entitled “Artificial Muscles” by StevenAshley, Scientific American, October 2003, pp. 53-59. Electro-activepolymers are polymers that move in response to an electrical current. Asdisclosed in the Scientific American article, supra,

-   -   “The fundamental mechanism underlying new artificial muscle        products relatively simple. When exposed to high-voltage        electric fields, dielectric elastomers—such as silicones and        acrylics—contract in the direction of the electric field lines        and expand perpendicularly to them, a phenomenon physicists term        Maxwell stress.

The exterior surface of the body support device may be constructed ofany fabric known in the textile arts commonly associated with pillows.This may include cotton, polyester, silk, or blends of any commonlyutilized materials.

Meanwhile, the interior cushion (e.g. the batting or filling) may becomprised of common materials known in the arts such as latex,polyester, feather, viscoelastic memory foam, down and gel as well asblends of any common materials.

In another embodiment, the bone conduction system 100 is configured as aseat, such as an automobile seat. In yet another embodiment, the boneconduction system 100 is configured as a hospital bed cushion as acomponent of a means for therapeutic treatment.

It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the presentembodiment is not limited to what has been particularly shown anddescribed hereinabove. A variety of modifications and variations arepossible in light of the above teachings without departing from thefollowing claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A bone conduction device comprising; a flexiblecover having an exterior surface and an interior cavity comprising aplurality of removably engageable secondary pockets therein, theflexible cover having batting disposed therein; a plurality ofrepositionable bone conduction transducers, each of the bone conductiontransducers in the plurality of bone conduction transducers disposedwithin a respective one of the plurality of removably engagablesecondary pockets, the plurality of bone conduction transducers disposedbetween the flexible cover and the batting, wherein each of theplurality of bone conduction transducers are configured to transmitsounds waves to stimulate a user through bone conduction; a sound sourcein communication with a wireless transmitter, wherein the wirelesstransmitter is electrically connected to and transmitting signals to theplurality of bone conduction transducers; and one or more USB portselectrically connected to a power source, wherein the power source isconfigured to receive, store, and transmit power to the plurality ofbone conduction transducers.
 2. The device of claim 1, furthercomprising a control panel disposed on the exterior surface of theflexible cover permitting the user to manage audio levels, ON/OFFfunctions, and other functions of the device from the exterior surfaceof the flexible cover.
 3. The device of claim 1 wherein each of the boneconduction transducers in the plurality of bone conduction transducersis positioned proximate to a head of the user.
 4. The device of claim 3,wherein each of the bone conduction transducers in the plurality of boneconduction transducers is proximately positioned to contact a temporalbone of the user.
 5. The device of claim 1 wherein each of the boneconduction transducers in the plurality of bone conduction transducersis configured to emit sound vibrations having a frequency range between50 and 4,000 Hz.
 6. The device of claim 1 wherein the flexible cover ismade of a textile.
 7. The device of claim 1 wherein the batting disposedwithin the flexible cover is configured to support at least one humanbody part.
 8. The device of claim 1 wherein the wireless transmitter,the one or more USB ports, the battery, and the sound source aredisposed within the interior cavity.
 9. The device of claim 1, whereinthe interior cavity is selectively opened utilizing a textile connectionmeans.
 10. The device of claim 1 wherein the device is configured as apillow.
 11. The device of claim 1 wherein the device is configured as aseat.
 12. The device of claim 1 wherein the device is configured as abed cushion.
 13. A method of stimulating a user using bone conductioncomprising the steps of: providing a bone conduction system within aflexible cover comprising an interior cavity with a plurality ofremovably engageable secondary pockets therein for the selectiveplacement of electrical components; the bone conduction systemcomprising a wireless receiver, a plurality of repositionable boneconduction transducers and a control panel, wherein the control panel isdisposed on an exterior surface of the flexible cover thereby permittingthe user to manage audio levels, ON/OFF functions, and other functionsof the system from the exterior of the cover; transmitting an audiosignal, utilizing an audio source, to the bone conduction system;receiving the audio signal utilizing the wireless receiver; andtransducing the audio signal such that the plurality of bone conductiontransducers stimulate a vestibular/somatosensory system of the user. 14.The method of claim 13, wherein the bone conduction system furthercomprises one or more USB ports.
 15. The method of claim 13, wherein thebone conduction system further comprises a battery.
 16. The method ofclaim 13, wherein the flexible cover is configured as a pillow.
 17. Themethod of claim 13, wherein the flexible cover is configured as a seat.18. The method of claim 13, wherein the flexible cover is configured asa bed cushion.
 19. The method of claim 13, wherein the interior cavityof the flexible cover may be is selectively opened utilizing a textileconnection means.